Master data chaos? Put an end to it! Precise product descriptions assist with customs tariff classification and simultaneously enhance your entire business.

Imagine your ERP system as a puzzle with 1000 pieces: Each piece is important, but without the complete picture, it's hard to put everything together correctly. And that's exactly how your customs department feels when it comes to your product descriptions. Terms like "cylinder" or "sensor"? Yes, of course! But what exactly is that supposed to be?

No worries, we'll shed light on the data jungle! Why are precise product descriptions important? Quite simply: The more accurately you describe your products, the better the customs classification works – and many other processes in the company as well.

Typical challenges: From "whatchamacallit" to "what's its name"

What do axles, sensors, and adapters have in common? Correct: They are the chameleons of the product world. An "axle" could just as well be a vehicle component or a part for an industrial plant. And an "adapter"? That can be anything from a USB plug to a hydraulic coupling. Not only does AI lose track, but also the customs authorities.

And then there's the synonym problem! A "plastic sheet" suddenly appears in the data as "panel," "board," or "plane." No wonder customs classification becomes a challenge – with so many names, in the end, no one knows exactly what is meant.

How it gets better

Enough with vague descriptions! Here are a few examples of how you can refine your master data:

Material type and purpose

• Before: "Cylinder"

• Better: "Hydraulic cylinder for construction equipment"

• Success moment: The customs officer reads the description and nods approvingly

Technical features

• Before: "Pump"

• Better: "Gear pump, max. 7 bar, 230V"

• Success moment: Your purchasing department can compare offers precisely, as all relevant specifications are immediately available.

Material composition and form

• Before: "Foil"

• Better: "Polypropylene film, 0.2 mm thick, transparent"

• Success moment: Your quality inspection saves time because the material requirements are more precisely defined.

Size and dimensions

• Before: "Steel pipe"

• Better: "Steel pipe, 2 meters long, 50 mm diameter"

• Success moment: Your warehouse team is happy because they can precisely plan the space requirement at a glance.

What do you gain from this?

Well, a lot! Here's a quick overview:

More efficient logistics

With accurate dimensions and weights, you no longer have to proceed with loading containers with the motto "hope it fits." No overloads, no unpleasant surprises!

Better communication with suppliers

You no longer want your supplier to ask three times what you mean by "the thing"? Then precise data helps – and saves a lot of time and nerves.

Improved customer service

Your sales team can immediately respond thanks to clear master data: "Yes, we have the product in stock! And by the way: It's 2 meters long, 50 mm thick, and weighs exactly 10 kg."

Compliance made easy

The next customs inspection is coming up? With accurate data in the system, you can relax.

Better internal collaboration

Your purchasing and logistics suddenly speak the same language? Miracles happen – or thanks to precise master data.

Our recommendations for better master data

To ensure everything runs smoothly, we at traide AI have these simple yet effective tips for you:

• Train your teams. (No, no bootcamp necessary – but a little customs knowledge never hurts.)

• Use consistent terms.

• Utilize technical documentation. (Catalogs are your new best friends.)

• Provide measurements and technical details. A "good enough" won't cut it – clear numbers make the difference.

• Reduce internal abbreviations. What you call "P500" might be incomprehensible to others.

• Briefly describe the purpose of use. A component without context remains a mystery to customs and marketing.

• Conduct regular data checks. Even master data occasionally needs a spring cleaning to stay current and accurate.

• Collaborate with your suppliers. Clear communication ensures better data quality from the start.

Conclusion

Invest in your data. Both customs and other departments in your company will thank you.

A good product description can indeed move mountains – or at least reduce your processing costs. Whether customs, logistics, or purchasing: Precise master data saves you time, money, and a lot of nerves.

And now, honestly: Do you really want to keep groping in the dark, or would you rather have clarity? If the latter, simply book a demo with us and experience how traide AI takes your customs classification to a new level! 😉